Lily Tarn, Rothay Park and Rydal Water Loop

Starting near Westmorland and Furness, England, the Lily Tarn, Rothay Park, and Rydal Water Loop is a captivating 11 km (approximately 6.8 miles) loop trail with an elevation gain of around 400 meters (about 1,312 feet). This medium-difficulty trail offers a blend of serene tarns, lush parklands, and picturesque lakes, making it a delightful experience for hikers.

Getting There

To reach the trailhead, you can drive or use public transport. If driving, head towards Ambleside, a well-known town in the Lake District. Parking is available near Rothay Park, which is a convenient starting point. For those using public transport, Ambleside is accessible by bus from major towns like Windermere, which has a train station connecting to larger cities.

Trail Highlights

Rothay Park

Starting from Rothay Park, you will find yourself in a beautifully maintained green space, perfect for a gentle warm-up. The park is a popular spot for picnics and offers lovely views of the surrounding fells. As you leave the park, you will cross the River Rothay, a serene river that adds to the tranquil atmosphere.

Lily Tarn

Approximately 2 km (1.2 miles) into the hike, you will reach Lily Tarn. This small, secluded tarn is surrounded by heather and offers stunning views of the Langdale Pikes. It's a peaceful spot, ideal for a short break and some photography. The elevation gain to this point is moderate, making it accessible for most hikers.

Rydal Water

Continuing on, you will head towards Rydal Water, located about 5 km (3.1 miles) from the start. This picturesque lake is one of the smaller lakes in the Lake District but is renowned for its beauty. The trail around Rydal Water is relatively flat, providing a pleasant contrast to the earlier ascent. Keep an eye out for the famous Rydal Cave, a large cavern that is a popular attraction.

Historical Significance

The area around Rydal Water is steeped in history. Rydal Mount, the home of the poet William Wordsworth, is located nearby. Wordsworth lived here for most of his life, and the surrounding landscape greatly influenced his poetry. The trail offers a chance to walk in the footsteps of one of England's greatest poets.

Wildlife and Nature

The trail is rich in wildlife. You may spot red squirrels, a variety of bird species, and even deer in the more wooded areas. The flora is equally impressive, with bluebells in the spring and a variety of ferns and mosses adding to the lush, green environment.

Navigation and Safety

Given the varied terrain, it's advisable to use a reliable navigation tool like HiiKER to stay on track. The trail is well-marked, but having a digital map can be very helpful, especially in areas where the path may be less distinct.

Final Stretch

As you loop back towards Ambleside, the final 4 km (2.5 miles) offer a gentle descent, passing through more woodland and open fields. The views of the surrounding fells are a constant companion, making the return journey just as enjoyable as the initial ascent.

This trail offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and moderate physical challenge, making it a must-do for any hiking enthusiast visiting the Lake District.